I would say it's true that science does not have all the answers as of now. That does not mean that what everything that is said in the bible is true though.

It's like saying, science cannot prove that there are no harp playing aliens on venus, therefore there are harp playing aliens on venus.

In some cases we believe what we want to believe.

Hope you have better customers in the future

Have a nice one!

I sneeze and say I'm allergic to bullshit (Will Smith - I.Robot 2004)

My answer is truthful:
YES, I've not only read it but studied it for decades and it thoroughly convinced me it was all a myth.
Have you read it?
I'll bet there are lots of verses you don't know it contains.

"Have you read the bible?"

"Yes."

And then move on.

A little part of me dies, when I engage one of these religious lunatics......?

I DO read the English Standard Version simply because my cousin's let's just say... weird congregation uses it. He and his wife are raising their children in the same church. Me being me, I love to really question everything and share my opinions. I will indeed bring up my logical issues with the Bible next time he lectures my family.

I'd answer 'Which translation'? There are quite a few and they do differ in subtle ways. Also would answer yes and that I'm grateful for the Bible because by knowing it one can easily see how theologians misuse what is contained in it to advance their counterfeit theological doctrines and values.

Most of all how grateful I am that the Bible revealed for me how false, evil and corrupt men who hawk religions are. But for the Bible showing up religions and the sick men who promote the hypocritical institutions they are, I might never have become atheist.

I'd say YES by all means read the Bible and ignore theologians twisting of it and you too can ascend to the level of atheist. Have a nice day.

I hope you don't follow Trump too because that is just a cult.

I say I prefer Aesop, it's more moral.

I would meet the old guy head on with, “The Bible is just another book to me! I prefer Hindu scriptures. Every religion has its holy books, and they are all different. I get my religion from all sorts of books, and from life itself”. Have you read the Upanishads?

Old people are a PITA!

You did the right thing. When bible thumpers come knocking at my door, I just tell them I am an atheist. They look dumbfounded, and I close the door.

You could always go with "I'm shocked you would ask such a personal question" and walk away.